Services
Taoist funeral services
For families who observe Taoist rites, we work with Taoist priests (道長) to conduct the ceremonies, and we prepare the altar and the paper offerings that provide for your loved one in the next world. Services are held at our chapel in Highland Park, New Jersey.
The priest and the rites
Taoist rites vary a great deal by region. Cantonese families may ask for the rite of breaking the gates of hell (破地獄); families from Fujian, Chaozhou, or Taiwan follow their own order of ceremonies. These rites need time, space, and preparation, so tell us early that your family would like a Taoist priest. We arrange the schedule, the chapel, and the ritual items with the priest.
Paper offerings
Joss paper and paper offerings (紙紮), such as money, a house, and other goods, are burned to provide for your loved one. We arrange them and have them burned properly. Where and when the burning takes place depends on what the cemetery or crematory permits, and we take care of that for you.
The altar
We prepare the altar and the offerings according to your family’s practice: the portrait, incense and candles, lamps, and food and fruit.
Taoist, Buddhist, and family customs together
Few families are purely Taoist. Many hold Taoist rites at the wake and invite Buddhist chanting as well, or keep the paper offerings and the family’s own regional customs. We follow your family’s way, whatever the mix. Our guide explains what happens at a Taoist funeral.
What we arrange
- Coordination with Taoist priests for rites and chanting
- Paper offerings (紙紮) and joss paper arranged and burned properly
- Altar preparation and offerings according to your family’s practice
Frequently asked questions
Can you arrange a Taoist priest?
Yes. We work with Taoist priests to conduct the ceremonies and coordinate the schedule with them. Please tell us as early as you can.
Do guests need to bring paper offerings?
No. The family and the funeral home prepare all joss paper and paper goods.
Can Taoist rites be combined with Buddhist chanting?
Yes. Many families observe both, and we arrange each part.
Not sure what your family needs?
Call us. We will listen and talk it through with you. There is no charge for a conversation.